I wish to thank the Gazette for the April 16 article “Northampton School Committee OKs $35.1M budget,” which touched on financial disparities that many educational support professionals (ESPs) are continuously facing.

After two years of attending Georgia State University and earning a spot on the “President’s List” twice, for a 4.0 GPA, I decided to transfer to Hampshire College and move to Massachusetts. I completed my bachelor’s in early childhood education and educational justice from Hampshire and was in a teacher licensure program, through Mount Holyoke College, where I continued to earn all A’s.

While becoming a certified special education teacher is my professional and community service goal, I’m currently an educational support professional (ESP) at Bridge Street Elementary, in downtown Northampton. I primarily work to assist and support children who have learning differences, like myself.

I’m blessed to work and learn alongside some of the most brilliant, talented, kindhearted, and hardworking individuals I’ve ever known (students and co-workers). However, it is absolutely true that “the current pay for educational support professionals (ESPs) leaves [us] virtually impoverished and shows a lack of respect from city budget planners” and regardless of one’s degrees, achievements, or work ethic.

School employees deserve to feel seen, valued, and earn an equitable wage. I worry what will happen to public schools in Northampton, a town I live in, work in, and love, if positive changes don’t occur. Even if this sounds idealistic, I know instinctively that wherever I teach, I will continue to connect with teachers and students who are unique, non-traditional, and brave enough to speak on behalf of people with less privilege.

MEGAN YOUNG

Northampton

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